Greek Orthodox Easter is considered by many Greeks to be more important than Christmas, and the celebration is extraordinary. The midnight Anastasi service on Holy Saturday is the centrepiece — churches overflow, everyone holds white candles, and at midnight the priest calls 'Christos Anesti' (Christ is Risen) as the flame passes from candle to candle across thousands of people simultaneously. The fireworks that follow are unofficial but universal. Easter Sunday means whole roasted lamb on spits in every courtyard and garden. The island of Hydra, car-free, is considered the most atmospheric Easter destination in Greece.
The island of Patmos, where Revelation was written, has the most spiritually significant Easter. Hydra and Spetses have the most beautiful atmosphere. Athens' Monastiraki area at midnight is extraordinary. Book island ferries and accommodation months ahead.